The International Competition of First and Second Feature Films forms the main program section of the Festival. Only films which meet the following requirements are eligible to enter the competition: these films must have been made and distributed on 35mm film as a professional or independent production, with an overall length exceeding 60 minutes. They should not have been made or premiered more than two years prior to the Festival. Only film prints in good technical condition, in English or with English subtitles, are eligible.
The films submitted for the competition may be presented at other international events prior to the Festival. Festival organizers, based upon recommendations made by the Program Director, make the selection of films for the competition. Films selected will be screened in the original language with simultaneous translation to the language of the host country.
Other program sections include non-competition showings and retrospectives. The scope and selection of films will be decided by the Program Director of the Festival.